Deadly Cannabis Gummies Spark Police Probe in Ilford
A 23-year-old woman tragically died after eating what she thought were harmless cannabis sweets, or gummies, bought through a messaging app. The deadly treats were delivered straight to her home in South Park Drive, Ilford, on 29 March.
Dark Turn After Sweet Treats
The woman and a 21-year-old friend each ate one of the sweets. Both immediately felt ill and emergency services were called around 11.30pm that night. They were rushed to a London hospital. Sadly, the 23-year-old died on 2 April. Her identity is being withheld. The other woman has since been discharged.
Police Launch Urgent Investigation
Officers have recovered several sweets and are awaiting test results, alongside a special post-mortem examination. They are investigating if more people have fallen ill from similar products. A possible linked case involved a woman taken sick earlier in March in Tower Hamlets after eating a cannabis sweet. She was hospitalised but later discharged.
Arrest Made in Connection With Deadly Sweets
On 1 April, police arrested a man found with a large sum of cash and what is believed to be edible cannabis products. He faces multiple charges including possession with intent to supply Class B synthetic cannabinoids and psychoactive substances.
Police Warn Public: Stay Away from Illegal Sweets
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell said: “I must warn the public against taking any illegal substances, including those disguised as cannabis sweets. These products are illegal and often come in child-friendly packaging, which raises the risk of accidental consumption.”
“The batch in question carried ‘Trrlli Peachie O’s’ branding. We do not yet know where they were made. Drug dealers endanger communities and individuals. We are committed to taking strong action against those involved.”
“If you have information about the sale of these illegal products, please contact local officers, call 101, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers.”
